U2 is a rock band from Dublin, Ireland, formed in 1976. The band consists of lead vocalist Bono, guitarist The Edge, bassist Adam Clayton, and drummer Larry Mullen Jr. Inspired by punk rock and post-punk, U2's early sound was characterized by driving rhythms and anthemic guitar hooks. However, their sound gradually evolved to include elements of electronic and experimental music, often incorporating social and political themes into their lyrics. Over their long career, U2 has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby, and Songs of Innocence. They are widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential bands in the history of rock music, having sold over 150 million records worldwide and won 22 Grammy Awards. Despite their massive success, the band has always maintained a commitment to social activism, supporting causes such as AIDS awareness, human rights, and poverty alleviation.